When I arrived at my accommodation, Llys Meddyg in Newport, Pembrokeshire in Wales I was warmly welcomed by Cecilia, mother of the owners Ed and his wife Lou. After I had checked in and taken my luggage to my room I joined Cecilia in the lounge for a cup of tea. During our conversation Cecilia told me about the restaurant and the local area and suggested a walk I could do before dinner that evening. She also said I should have a look at their garden.
As the sun was shining I decided to have a look around the property first and headed for the back garden. The garden was very nice and as I was standing admiring it one of the chefs came out and offered me a tour of the rest of the garden – I had not seen the entrance which was an archway through a building.
The building we walked through houses a small pizzeria that is only open during the summer. There was an eating area inside featuring large wooden tables and benches – ideal for groups and families. Outside were some sheltered tables offering a quieter more atmospheric dining experience overlooking the garden. In this area there is a small kitchen garden growing produce to be used by the restaurant.
There was more to come. At the end of the garden was a barbecue area accessed through an archway and shielded from the rest of the garden by a high hedge.
Through another archway, across a lawn I discovered a yurt and had to have a peek inside. It was surprisingly spacious and comfortably furnished with en suite facilities.
That evening I had dinner in the restaurant area of the cellar bar. Llys Meddyg offers the choice of dining in the restaurant or the cellar bar and both offer a cosy ambience and friendly service. The bar specialises in a wide variety of different gins. By the time I had read through their G&T menu and was weighing up the merits of a Warner Edwards’ Victoria Rhubarb Gin versus a Llys Meddyg Gin infused with crab apple my food arrived and it was too late for an aperitif.
For the first course of my dinner I had a delicious starter of crab mousse topped with fresh crab from Solva. I had driven through the pretty coastal village of Solva on my way to Newport so I felt an affinity with my food. My main course was a perfectly seared fillet of hake and I finished with a tart lime tart suitably complimented by the sweetness of meringue and caramelised pastry.
After eating I went up to my room – Llys Meddyg has five bedrooms. I had not spent much time there but I had noticed a large, claw footed bath in the spacious bathroom and was determined to treat myself to a long soak in it before going to bed. It had been a busy and very enjoyable day and this would draw it to close very pleasantly before flopping the large, comfy bed.
The next morning, in the dining room, I was able to indulge in my favourite breakfast – smoked salmon on scrambled egg. It was the best I had ever eaten and I have eaten a few, thanks Ed.
